Source of opium and the narcotic alkaloids, morphine and codeine used to control pain, coughs and diarrhea. Its seeds, which do not contain alkaloids, are widely used as "poppy seeds" on breads, cakes, bagels, and in Middle Eastern delicacies such as halva. The seeds also yield a good quality oil used for salads and to make soap, ointments and paints. -- RED flowered variety. NOTE: Because opium poppy seeds are used in baked goods and other foods, they are legal to possess and use in most countries. But growing the plants, even if only for seeds or as an ornamental flower, may not be strictly legal in many of those same countries.